He was born July 16, 1925, in Atkins, the son of John T. and Maudie Johnston Burris. He was preceded in death by his parents, infant brother and first wife, Janelda Burris.

He was a U.S. Navy veteran, farmer and a welder. He was a member of Saint Joe Free Will Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Betty O. Burris and daughter, Debra L. Burris, both of Atkins,

Funeral service will be conducted at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 30, 2012, at Saint Joe Free Will Baptist Church with the Revs. Darrel Barnes and Jim McNutt officiating. Burial will be at Saint Joe Cemetery by Lemley Funeral Service of Atkins.